Media

Curriculum Intent

Media Studies is an especially creative and innovative subject; learning about the media involves both exploring and constructing media products within a diverse range of platforms. Through both practical and theoretical study, pupils will gain an acute appreciation for the way in which the media industry works to shape our perceptions of the world around us. 

Our Curriculum is designed to challenge a passive audience and to create enquiring minds through deconstructing texts and analysing how meaning is created.  These vital skills are essential in a society where young people are increasingly influenced by mass media as convergent technology seeps into our every day lives.  We want our students to critique traditional representations in mass media and ask questions as to the motivations behind a creative industry that is increasingly motivated by profit and power.

The subject is now taught as an option subject in its own media hub by specialist and passionate teachers. As a department, we have access to computer facilities and recording equipment which enable pupils to develop knowledge and experience of numerous relevant technologies and software packages. 

 

Curriculum Implementation

Key Stage 3

N/A Media Studies is only taught from Years 10-11.

Key Stage 4

At Key Stage 4, pupils follow the Eduqas Media Studies GCSE specification. The WJEC Eduqas course introduces pupils to a theoretical framework, composing of four key areas, via which the media is to be interpreted – media language, representation, media industries and audiences. This is taught in relation to varied examples, contemporary and historic, deriving from a wide range of media forms: advertising and marketing, film, magazines, music video, newspapers, online media, radio, television and video games.

Pupils are assessed by the following:

Component 1 Exploring the Media

Written exam: 1.5 hours (40%)

Component 2 Understanding Media Forms and Products

Written exam: 1.5 hours (30%)

Component 3 Creating Media Products

Non-exam assessment (30%)

A range of briefs in four media forms will be set annually.

Set texts for GCSE Media Specification:
  • Advertising and Marketing: Quality Street and This Girl Can
  • Film Posters: Man with the Golden Gun and No Time To Die
  • Television: Luther and The Sweeney
  • Newspapers: The Guardian and The Sun
  • Magazines: GQ and Pride
  • Music Videos: Taylor Swift, Justin Bieber and TLC
  • Video Games: Fortnite
  • Radio: The Archers

Key Stage 5

Exam Board: Eduqas

 

Why A level Media Studies?

Media surrounds us! To make sense of the world today is to be proficient in deciphering the symbolism and coding of what we read, watch, listen to and interact with. To study media is to understand and develop communication skills and techniques in a range of media contexts: print, audio-visual and interactive. To function effectively in the 21st century is to have a developed, informed, critical and creative sense of the way media can be used to shape perceptions, attitudes and behaviour.

 

What will you study?

Students will hone communication skills for a range of audiences through a variety of media forms – film, TV, advertising, radio and the internet. Research techniques and creative production skills, combined with working in groups and as individuals, will develop transferable skills for the future.

The A-level linear topics will enable pupils to apply knowledge and understanding to a theoretical framework, and then use practical skills that relate to a media format of their choice for their Non-Exam Assessment (30%). As well as this, pupils will further their understanding of the Media by applying theoretical knowledge to two exams, both of which are worth 35% each. Questions across both papers will focus on: issues and debates within the Media, and the analysis of media products through the lens of the media theoretical framework.

 

University degrees and apprenticeships that require or often prefer Media Studies include:

Media studies, Media and Communication Studies, Journalism and Broadcasting.

 

Entry requirements:

Minimum grade 6 in GCSE Media Studies or an equivalent qualification, ie, ICT, Business, English Language.

‘The school and family share the responsibility of preparing the young person living in a world of powerful images, words and sounds. Children and adults need to be literate in all three of these symbolic systems. ‘

UNESCO

 

Extra-Curricular

Over the GCSE course, pupils will have the opportunity to have talks from experts in the media industry. Educational visits such as to BBC studios also aim to provide the students with a deeper insight into the inner workings of the media industry.

 

Skills for Success and Career Opportunities

The subject provides a range of employability skills that help pupils to be successful in later life such as: skills of enquiry, critical thinking, decision-making and analysis. They will also acquire knowledge and understanding of a range of significant social, cultural and political issues ongoing in the modern world. Through their component 3 (creation of their own product), pupils will learn the important skills of time management and personal organisation.

Media Studies at GCSE opens up extensive range of career directions. Many pupils can go onto directly relatable jobs such as: programme research film/video/broadcasting, public relations and production, or they go onto Apprenticeship and University courses which can relate to jobs in: advertising/ marketing, journalism, information officer, civil service and broadcasting.

 

Contact the Head of Department

For further information, please contact Alexandra Burns.